GRAP Stage-III reimposed in Delhi: Hefty Rs 20,000 challan if found driving these vehicles

In response to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi and NCR, the Delhi government has reintroduced Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as the air quality in the capital has worsened lately. This decision comes in the wake of a central government order banning the plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in the region, as these old vehicles emit significant amounts of particulate matter.

Which vehicles are banned and which are exempted?

The ban has been imposed with immediate effect in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. Exceptions are granted for vehicles deployed in emergency services, police vehicles, and government vehicles used for enforcement purposes.


Violations of this ban will result in penalties under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, with a hefty fine of Rs 20,000.

The Commission for Air Quality Management, a statutory body responsible for formulating and implementing air pollution reduction strategies, observed a considerable increase in Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI), reaching 458 and 457 at 10 am and 11 am, respectively. Unfavorable climatic conditions and local pollution sources were identified as contributors to the escalating air pollution levels.

GRAP categorizes actions into four stages based on AQI levels: Stage I "Poor" (AQI 201-300), Stage II "Very Poor" (AQI 301-400), Stage III "Severe" (AQI 401-450), and Stage IV "Severe Plus" (AQI > 450). The central government on January 2 had lifted the restrictions imposed under Stage-III of the GRAP-III in the capital. The decision to revoke the measures, which were implemented last year on December 22, was taken as the air quality appeared to be improving at that time.

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